Cool MateBelieve
UK /["/bɪˈliːv/","/bɪˈliːvz/","/bɪˈliːvd/","/bɪˈliːvɪŋ/"]/US /["/bɪˈliːv/","/bɪˈliːvz/","/bɪˈliːvd/","/bɪˈliːvɪŋ/"]/
Definition
to feel certain that something is true or that somebody is telling you the truth
In simple words: to think that something is true
Examples
- I believe in fairytales.
- Do you believe what he says?
- She believes that anything is possible.
- I can't believe my eyes!
- He always says to just believe in yourself.
Usage notes
Most often used in statements of faith or trust. Avoid in formal writing when expressing doubt; instead, use 'consider' or 'regard'.
Grammar pattern
believe + object
Memory hint
Think of a 'bee' that 'leaves' when someone shares a truth.
Collocations
- deeply
- fervently
- firmly
- cannot
- be hard to
- give somebody to
- can hardly believe something
- can scarcely believe something
- not believe a word of something
- deeply
- fervently
- firmly
- cannot
- be hard to
- give somebody to
- can hardly believe something
- can scarcely believe something
- not believe a word of something
- deeply
- fervently
- firmly
- cannot
- be hard to
- give somebody to
- can hardly believe something
- can scarcely believe something
- not believe a word of something
Synonyms
- trust
- accept
- regard
- consider
- have faith
Antonyms
- deny
- doubt
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'believe in' (which means to trust in the existence or value of something).
- Using 'believe' without an object (e.g., 'I believe.' should specify what).
- Mixing 'believe' with 'think' when conveying certainty (they have slight differences).